Five people were reported dead in New York City over the weekend amid freezing temperatures and snowfall, Mayor Zohran Mamdani said during a news briefing Sunday.
Mamdani did not confirm the causes of death, or whether the deaths were weather-related.
“While we do not yet know their causes of death, there is no more powerful reminder of the danger of extreme cold and how vulnerable many of our neighbors are, especially homeless New Yorkers,” Mamdani said.
Mamdani added that it does not appear at this time that any of the victims were homeless.
Snow has been falling consistently in New York City since the early morning, and the region is expecting an accumulation of about 11 inches, Mamdani said.
“We anticipate continued heavy snowfall this afternoon, with several hours of sustained 35 mile per hour wind gusts around 8 p.m. this evening,” Mamdani said. “Light freezing rain will begin to fall and continue overnight.”
While the weather is expected to taper off tomorrow, light snow, a freezing drizzle and intensely cold temperatures are still expected, Mamdani said.
Ten “warming centers” and 126 shelters have been opened up across the city to support residents, Mamdani said. He encouraged residents to stay indoors and off the roads.
“I cannot emphasize this enough, please, if you can avoid it, do not drive,” he said. “One of the reports we received earlier today from sanitation is there are still far too many New Yorkers out on the roads. Conditions are dangerous and a hazardous travel advisory is in effect for today and for tomorrow.”